Ukraine Beats USA In Pre World Cup Friendly

The U.S. men’s national soccer lost 2-0 to Ukraine in an international friendly that was overshadowed by political turmoil.

The match was supposed to be played in the Ukraine but was moved to Cyprus for security reasons. Ukraine’s players stood together, with arms on shoulders, as a sign of unity during the country’s national anthem and a moment of silence was observed before the match.

U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann viewed the match as an opportunity to evaluate his European-based players. He plans to use a roster made up on Major League Soccer stars for the friendly against Mexico next month.

Ukraine is one of the best countries not to qualify for the World Cup (ranked 18th overall).

Other notable results from today’s round of international friendlies include: